Ancelotti Explains Tactical Decision to Keep Neymar on Bench
Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti has clarified that Neymar’s absence from the starting lineup in the 2‑1 victory over Japan was a deliberate tactical choice, not related to fitness.
The experienced manager said he had intended to bring the forward on in the second half, possibly around the 60th or 65th minute, but changed his plan after Brazil equalised and took control of the match.
“We were waiting for Neymar for extra time. I spoke with him, he would have come in in the 60th or 65th minute. We equalised the game, and I didn’t want to change the structure because the team had control of the game,” Ancelotti told reporters after the match.
He added that Brazil possesses plenty of options both on the pitch and on the bench, and praised Japan for being an organised, intense side that made the victory hard‑earned.
Ancelotti also commended Japan’s spirited performance, explaining why he refrained from extravagant celebrations.
“People asked me why I didn’t celebrate, but football is also about respect. Yes, we were happy to win, but I looked across and saw a Japanese team that had given absolutely everything. They fought with incredible courage, and I know exactly how painful a defeat like that can be,” the former Real Madrid coach said.
“Japan made us suffer for ninety‑five minutes. They deserved our respect, not exaggerated celebrations. Brazil are through, but we know we must improve. Tonight we celebrate the qualification, but tomorrow we go back to work because the World Cup only gets more difficult from here.”
With the win, Brazil have secured a place in the Round of 16, where they will face either Ivory Coast or Norway on July 5 at the New York–New Jersey Stadium.
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